Internet identity theft: Do not give personal information to websites that are not using SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) to transfer the information. Secure sites are noted by the the "s" added to the usual http, preceding the website address. It will look like this: https. These sites will encrypt all information between your computer and the site so it is nearly impossibleto steal it. Legitimate sites will also have a Privacy Policy posted that states how your personal information will be used. If the site states that they might share your information with unnamed "third parties," you have no guarantee that the "third parties" will protect your information from identity theft.

Here are some other tips:

Use a "confetti" shredder for all paper and plastic that displays your personal information. This includes statements, credit card solicitations, junk mail that has your name and address, and expired cards of all kinds, including not only credit cards but also insurance cards, medical cards and even library cards. If you receive magazine subscriptions, remove the address pages for the shredder before throwing the magazines out. There should be nothing in your trash that identifies you that is not shredded.

Although these and other precautions can help reduce the risk of identity theft, vigilance can also go a long way towards protecting yourself. Watch your monthly billing and bank statements. Missing statements can be a sign that someone has changed your billing address without your knowledge or has stolen your mail right from the mail box. Even junk mail can be telling. If you suddenly get multiple catalogs or brochures for products you have never purchased, this could be a sign that someone else is using your name to buy from those merchants.

Experts also recommend reviewing your credit report regularly. In the United States, law allows each person one free copy yearly from each credit agency: Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. You can obtain all three free credit reports at once, or get one free copy every four months by rotating agencies. There is only one FTC-approved website for obtaining free credit reports, and it has no strings attached. Search for "free credit reports" and find the government approved website to apply.

Be aware of the double-dip scam as well. By applying for welfare or other forms of social assistance the identity thief can develop a way of getting food and some of the bills covered under assistance while maintaining a steady job in their real name. This type of identity theft can lead to criminal charges being brought against you, the victim, by the government agency that has been defrauded, leaving the thief to continue on with his life without interruption or legal problems.

Become educated about identity theft. You can minimize your risk by managing you personal credit information wisely, cautiously and with heightened diligence and sensitivity with the right information.

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